Development of Guidelines for Thailand's Pre-Release Programs Under the Soft Prison System

Abstract

Thailand practices pre-release programs under the soft prison system with the rationale that such programs would give offenders an opportunity to reform. This study aimed to find out the development of guidelines for Thailand’s pre-release programs under the soft prison. The research was carried out with 45 key informants through in-depth interview and focus group discussion. The sample included experts, academicians, executive officers and officials at headquarter of the Department of Corrections, prison wardens and officers in charge of pre-release programs under soft prison system. This study used questionaries, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to collect data. The study found that the development of guidelines for Thailand’s pre-release programs under the soft prison consisted of four essential factors which are development of pre-release programs in the soft prison, development of the prison environment, development of coordination with relevant agencies and planning of future policy of the soft prison. The findings of this study would provide useful insights to the policy makers and the legal experts to redefine the regulations and guidelines related to the pre-release programs under the soft prison.